View and connect to available wireless networks

If you have a laptop, you can see a list of available wireless networks, and then connect to one of those networks, no matter where you are. The wireless networks appear only if your computer has a wireless network adapter and driver installed and the adapter is enabled.

Watch this video to learn how to view and connect to available wireless networks (0.36)

To view and connect to available wireless networks

Open Connect to a Network by clicking the network icon ( or ) in the notification area.

In the list of available wireless networks, click a network, and then click Connect.

Some networks require a network security key or passphrase. To connect to one of those networks, ask your network administrator or Internet service provider (ISP) for the security key or passphrase.

Warning

Whenever possible, you should connect to security-enabled wireless networks. If you do connect to a network that's not secure, be aware that someone with the right tools can see everything that you do, including the websites you visit, the documents you work on, and the user names and passwords that you use. Changing your network location to Public can help minimize the risk. For more information, see Choosing a network location and How do I know if a wireless network is secure?

If you have a mobile PC, you can see a list of available wireless networks, and then connect to one of those networks, no matter where you are. The wireless networks appear only if your computer has a wireless network adapter installed and the adapter is turned on.

Open Connect to a Network by clicking the Start button , and then clicking Connect to.

In the Show list, click Wireless.

You'll see a list of the wireless networks currently available.

Click a network, and then click Connect.

If you don't see the network you want to connect to, click Set up a connection or network. A list of options will appear that includes manually searching for and connecting to a network, as well as creating a new network connection.

Some networks require a network security key or passphrase. To connect to one of those networks, ask the network administrator or the service provider for the key or passphrase.

Warning

Whenever possible, you should connect to security-enabled wireless networks. If you do connect to a network that is not secure, be aware that someone with the right tools can see everything that you do, including the websites you visit, the documents you work on, and the user names and passwords that you use.